General

Question 1 – Why are you standing for Cardiff North?

As a father of two, I am very familiar with the issues confronting ordinary families. I’m a long standing Cardiff resident and I am very much on the side of local communities and hard-working people in Cardiff North.

Question 2 – What personal qualities do you have that would make you a good MP?

I’m a self employed businessman with a wealth of life experience and work hard to provide for my family. I would bring that same determination and commitment to the people of Cardiff North if elected as their MP.

Question 3 – When did you join your party and why?

I joined UKIP two years ago because the main two parties are forever arguing, don’t deliver, and cannot keep their promises. That is why I joined UKIP, because UKIP is the only Party that provides a real voice for change.

National Issues

Question 4 – What pledges in your manifesto would you change?

UKIP has put forward an excellent manifesto both nationally and here in Wales which I’m happy to support. UKIP is a democratic party and, like all parties, some people will disagree, but personally I’m happy with what we’re proposing. If anything, I’d like to see us go further on some of our stretching targets around things like delivering affordable homes.

Question 5 – Where do you stand on brexit and how do you think the process will affect Cardiff North?

Whatever happens on June 8th, Theresa May will be negotiating Brexit after the election. We need to ensure that she gets us the Brexit that the Leave voters wanted. This means tight controls for immigration, and a sovereign UK outside the jurisdiction of the European Courts. There’s a bright future for Cardiff North after Brexit and UKIP will hold the Government’s feet to the firer to ensure they deliver.

Question 6 – What national issues would you like to get involved in and why?

The NHS is important to all of us. We’d pay for more spending on the NHS by cutting the foreign aid budget. Under UKIP’s plan we’d still give 0.2% of GDP to foreign aid (about the same as Obama did in the USA) but scrap the unrealistic 0.7% target. We’d save another £2 billion per year by ensuring that everyone coming to the UK has medical insurance and ending health tourism.

Local Issues

Question 7 – What local issues will you prioritise?

One of the major issues affecting people in Cardiff North is the difficulty in commuting into Cardiff on a daily basis. Traffic gridlock, particularly on Manor Way and Caerphilly Road causes delays and frustration for workers and those on the school run. We need to tackle this, and also provide better public transport links, ensuring that Cardiff North gains the full benefit of the South Wales Metro.

Question 8 – For local issues that aren’t an MP’s direct responsibility, how will you make a difference?

MPs provide an important voice for local people and are able to influence decision makers at other levels of Government on a wide range of issues. Listening to the views of constituents is a crucial part of the role, as well as acting on their concerns.

Question 9 – What will you do to ensure you’re a visible MP?

I’ll ensure that I hold regular surgeries throughout the constituency, as well as keeping up an active social media presence and issuing a regular newsletter so people can keep up to date with my work.

Miscellaneous

Question 10 – What’s the most difficult question you’ve been asked during the campaign and how did you reply?

I was asked why people should trust politicians because, the questioner said, they always lie! Well, we want to change the democratic system so that you have the right to recall your MP if they’re doing a bad job and force another election. We’re the turkeys voting for Christmas (just like we were in the European Parliament when we supported Brexit). Why? Because we’re not in it for ourselves but for the good of the country.

Question 11 – What would you say to someone who isn’t planning on voting?

This is probably the most important election in a generation. We have to hold the Conservatives’ feet to the fire on Brexit and we can’t risk either a huge Tory majority or the shambles of a Labour Government. Whatever you do on June 8th, please set aside just a few minutes of your time to go and vote, and of course if you decide to vote for UKIP, you’ll be voting for real change.

General

Question 1 – Why are you standing for Cardiff North?

I’m standing in Cardiff North because this was my home for 15 years and where I’ve raised my children.

I’m standing in Cardiff North because people here want an MP who will represent their views & how they feel, an MP that will listen & be their voice in Westminster. For the last 2 years, this has not been the case when time and time again Craig Williams has voted with the whip against the wishes of his constituents on a range of topics such as the Dubs Amendement, taking £30 a week from disabled people and voting for the triggering of Article 50 when Cardiff voted to remain.

I’m standing because I believe in fairness and an equal society, I don’t see this reflected in the policies that the Tories have enacted that have served to widen the gap between richest and poorest in our society.

I believe I have enthusiasm – an enthusiasm for projects and work that I know will change the lives of people in Cardiff North.

Question 2 – What personal qualities do you have that would make you a good MP?

I am confident that I am a good listener and communicator – I think it’s vitally important that our constituents are being listened to and are consulted with & fed back to lately.

I feel I am approachable to people – residents should be able to get in touch me with in a variety of ways and feel that I am contactable be it online, in the constituency office or at regular Surgeries.

I believe in co-operative working, I’m not here for myself – I’m here for you & we achieve more if we work together.

Question 3 – When did you join your party and why?

I joined the Labour Party in the 90s. I joined the Labour Party because of the poverty and inequality I saw as a child and that disfigures our communities. I grew up in Thatcher’s Wales – with our communities attacked and people unable to make ends meet. We still see that legacy today. But we are facing something much worse. A Tory Government that cares nothing for our public services, for our communities or for Wales. I believe we need a voice in politics that speaks for the many and not the few and that represents you.

National Issues

Question 4 – What pledges in your manifesto would you change?

That is a very good question!

Having thought about it – I don’t think I would change any of our manifesto pledges – how can I argue against more police officers in this climate? We desperately need them on our streets.

We need more sustainable houses, we need secure employment for our workforce.

Welsh Labour have listened to the people of Wales & have created a manifesto around what we know we can deliver.

Question 5 – Where do you stand on brexit and how do you think the process will affect Cardiff North?

I was a passionate Remainer – I still am. I campaigned & voted for Remain.

I accept the democratic result was reached and it was not the one I would’ve hoped for. I know this is the same for the majority of people in Cardiff North.

I think that voting for the triggering of Article 50 was wrong, I think voting against securing post Brexit funding for Wales was wrong.

I am concerned that we’re hurtling towards a Brexit that will absolutely backfire for us econcomically and for our worldwide relationships.

I think Wales is being ignored in the Brexit Talks – Welsh Labour together with Plaid Cymru put together a white paper on Brexit for Wales & this had been ignored by the Tories.

Question 6 – What national issues would you like to get involved in and why?

I am passionate about the environment and this is reflected in my career.

I am a passionate supporter of equality at all intersections and believe we must do more to protect the most vulnerable in our communities.

Local Issues

Question 7 – What local issues will you prioritise?

I would like to work with our Assembly Members & councillors on the issues that affect Cardiff North.

Julie Morgan AM has done fantastic work on the Llanishen resevoir & I would like to work with her to continue this good work.

I would like to see Cardiff become a city with a sustainable cycling plan to take pressure off our roads.

I want to ensure that we’re taking children out of poverty.

Question 8 – For local issues that aren’t an MP’s direct responsibility, how will you make a difference?

I would work with our local councillors, not against them.

I want to work closely with Julie Morgan – share ideas and ensure that we’re working collaboratively for the betterment of our constituency.

Question 9 – What will you do to ensure you’re a visible MP?

Have regular surgeries that are spread across the constituency, at various days and times to ensure that they’re convenient for residents.

Strong presence on the high street so people feel welcome to pop by.

Regular updates online and with letters to residents.

Miscellaneous

Question 10 – What’s the most difficult question you’ve been asked during the campaign and how did you reply?

I think it’s been a learning curve to stand on a platform and defend your beliefs & ideas – ensuring that you know why you believe what you believe in and that you can coherently defend them when pressed.

Question 11 – What would you say to someone who isn’t planning on voting?

I would say you can’t make a change if you don’t use your voice.

You can’t complain about the process if you’re not involved in the process.

I believe that politics is about coming together & sharing your ideas, pragmatism, compromise – we should pull in the same direction to achieve the society we want to see that delivers for the many, not just the few.

That I’m sorry you feel disenfranchised from the system and I want to listen to what I can do to help you benefit from it.

General

Question 1 – Why are you standing for Cardiff North?

I’m standing for re-election as your Member of Parliament to continue to deliver economic growth, fair funding for Wales, the Cardiff City deal, record levels of employment and to abolish the Seven Bridge Tolls.

Question 2 – What personal qualities do you have that would make you a good MP?

I’m accessible, local and a quick study! Hopefully the people of Cardiff North have tested my qualities to date but living and raising a family in Cardiff gives me a good grounding in the seat.

Question 3 – When did you join your party and why?

I joined the Conservative party a decade ago, it was about delivering for people and not keeping people down. It’s about creating opportunities for everyone, through economic growth and sustainable infrastructure – investment in our roads, rail and transport.

National Issues

Question 4 – What pledges in your manifesto would you change?

We’re a broad church in the Conservative Party and on balance our Manifesto will deliver for the UK, without bankrupting the country – politics is about compromise.

Question 5 – Where do you stand on brexit and how do you think the process will affect Cardiff North?

Voted and campaigned to Remain, however, I clearly accept the result of the UK referendum and know it is important that we get the strong possible deal with the EU and other global partners around the world. There are huge opportunities for Cardiff North in our new relationships, but it will take strong leadership to get the deal that works for Cardiff, Wales and the UK.

Question 6 – What national issues would you like to get involved in and why?

Empowering local and regional economies. One size never fits all and it’s hugely important to champion local solutions, through the City Deal process we are seeing huge investment in these local projects and vision. I want to continue true devolution / localism by empowering our City through powers and investment.

Local Issues

Question 7 – What local issues will you prioritise?

Delivering transport infrastructure is the key priority, in line with protecting our overdevelopment of our green open spaces.

Question 8 – For local issues that aren’t an MP’s direct responsibility, how will you make a difference?

During my time as your MP, we have always taken up any issues be it Council, Welsh Assembly or indeed EU issue. We have had successes on dealing with local issues and while so many of the day to day public services are not the responsibility of the Westminster Government, I believe it’s important to represent people.

Question 9 – What will you do to ensure you’re a visible MP?

Continue to hold weekly skype and appointment surgeries, every two weeks public surgeries, remain on social media and of course keep my street surgeries going.

Miscellaneous

Question 10 – What’s the most difficult question you’ve been asked during the campaign and how did you reply?

Questions that relate to devolved functions, clearly MP’s have no direct control over the NHS, Education, Local Government and other devolved areas but we have to represent the views of constituents.

Question 11 – What would you say to someone who isn’t planning on voting?

This is one of the most important elections for a generation, make sure your voice is heard.

General

Question 1 – Why are you standing for Cardiff North?

Over the last two years politics seems to have become darker, about finding someone to blame for our problems or a group to scapegoat. I believe we can have a positive future ahead of us, and I’m standing for Cardiff North to offer that positive vision to people here.

Question 2 – What personal qualities do you have that would make you a good MP?

Part of being a good MP is knowing that you don’t have all the answers – and knowing that many of your constituents know more about their community or a certain policy area than you do. I like to think I’m a good listener and willing to take on board different points of view before making a decision.

Question 3 – When did you join your party and why?

I joined in 2007, and it was really first and foremost the then Labour Government’s relentless attacks on our civil liberties and personal freedoms that led to me wanting to become a more active liberal. Remember them trying to introduce ID Cards?! That fight still continues, because both the Tories and Labour recently voted to snoop on all of our e-mails and store all our internet history for a year. It’s just not on. I was also passionate about the environment and tackling climate change, which impacts on the poorest communities around the world.

National Issues

Question 4 – What pledges in your manifesto would you change?

Some in my party won’t like me for saying this, but I think the Pensions Triple Lock needs to go. I’m 32. We’ve an ageing population and we’ve some difficult decisions ahead about how we structure public spending to meet the clear need there will be in pensions, health and social care. But pensioner poverty has fallen significantly, and pensions are now rising way above the rate people are earning. We need a fair deal for pensioners, of course, but I think the Triple Lock should be looked at again.

Question 5 – Where do you stand on brexit and how do you think the process will affect Cardiff North?

I am an internationalist and an optimist and I hope that Britain can find a way to Remain in the EU. One of the most disappointing aspects of politics over the last few months is how Labour and Plaid have totally given up the fight on this. Labour have abandoned the fight for free movement to work and study and the Plaid manifesto doesn’t mention the Single Market at all, yet so many Welsh businesses rely on it to sell goods to so many people, which creates jobs here in Cardiff. I think Brexit will worsen our public finances, which means a risk of less money for the NHS and our schools, and our university sector – which employs many people in Cardiff – is going to lose out. I’ll fight as hard as I can for Britain’s place at the heart of Europe. And I’m the only Cardiff North candidate who will be doing so.

Question 6 – What national issues would you like to get involved in and why?

There are so many. But at the moment the world is seeing its worst migration crisis since the second world war. People are fleeing war, persecution and climate change. I want to make sure that Britain remains an open and tolerant nation and steps up to help those in huge need, by continuing our commitment on aid and also by welcoming more refugees – setting an example that challenges other European nations to welcome more refugees, too.

Local Issues

Question 7 – What local issues will you prioritise?

Air pollution in our towns and cities is actually claiming lives, we’re seeing a rise in respiratory health issues such as asthma, for example. So improving public transport, cycling and walking is crucial to removing polluting vehicles from our towns and cities. I want to make sure Cardiff has a serious plan to reduce car use, which has to start by improving the public transport offer.

Question 8 – For local issues that aren’t an MP’s direct responsibility, how will you make a difference?

It’s about being willing to work with the Assembly Members in Cardiff (and across Wales) to challenge them and support them in those areas of policy. I am a passionate believer in devolution, so one of my primary jobs as an MP is to fight for that fair deal for Wales and get more powers to the Assembly.

Question 9 – What will you do to ensure you’re a visible MP?

I’ll deliver regular leaflets, keep knocking on doors, maintain an online presence, open an office in the constituency and hold surgeries in various locations across Cardiff North. I’m sure readers will have some ideas as to where I can hold them!

Miscellaneous

Question 10 – What’s the most difficult question you’ve been asked during the campaign and how did you reply?

People have asked why vote Liberal Democrat in this seat, a traditional Tory – Labour marginal. The clear answer is that we are the only party fighting for our place in Europe and for a positive future for Britain. We need to send a message to both the old parties that people think differently to them. UKIP barely won a seat, but with 15% of the vote they forced the Tories into offering the EU referendum and turned the Labour Party against immigration. Vote Liberal Democrat and we can start changing the terms of the debate back to ones about the open and tolerant Britain we want to see.

Question 11 – What would you say to someone who isn’t planning on voting?

That I’m sorry I’ve not yet been able to convince them that I’m voting yet and ask them why it is their planning not to vote. People have different reasons not to, and sometimes having that conversation about what interests them can make a difference. But I’d always leave encouraging people to cast their ballot. It does make a difference.

General

To make a difference and offer a real alternative to the tired British London based parties.

Question 2 – What personal qualities do you have that would make you a good MP?

Hard working, honest person who tries to listen, learn and make relevant improvments

Question 3 – When did you join your party and why?

Very recently, 2015, because of constant Labour support for austerity and excellent alternative provided by Leanne Wood with Plaid Cymru

National Issues

Question 4 – What pledges in your manifesto would you change?

I am quite happy with the 2017 Plaid Cymru action plan

Question 5 – Where do you stand on brexit and how do you think the process will affect Cardiff North?

Voted remain but accept the decision and will work for a positive post Brexit plan. Our economy, education system, workers rights and even our democracy could be in danger and will need to be defended during the Brexit process. All of these issues will affect Cardiff North. We will need to work to make it a success but it may be the opportunity that people have voted for.

Question 6 – What national issues would you like to get involved in and why?

Health because our policy of 1,000 new doctors and 5,000 new nurses is a great start, even though this is a devolved issue. Prevention is also better than trying to make good later and I do like the efforts of the Big Issue so homelessness and literacy are issues I would like to work on. A green economy and sustainable transport answers also appeals as does international development. Devolution of issues such as broadcasting and policing would also appeal.

Local Issues

Question 7 – What local issues will you prioritise?

Transport and planning with the city deal, electric trains and local housing / Velindre hospital development being issues needing attention. Local businesses and community groups need support.

Question 8 – For local issues that aren’t an MP’s direct responsibility, how will you make a difference?

Financial and devolution settlements will provide a direct link but other matters can be influenced by partnership working with International, Assembly and local authority partners and even helping community, business and specific issue groups to access support wherever possible

Question 9 – What will you do to ensure you’re a visible MP?

I do like social media. I also like talking with and listening to people face to face so I would make time for people. I would also provide a welcome for people in Westminster. Regular feedback would be provided and constituents would be consulted as often as possible.

Miscellaneous

Question 10 – What’s the most difficult question you’ve been asked during the campaign and how did you reply?

Individual rights questions are difficult when one persons beliefs impact on someone else’s life. You can’t please all the people all the time so you have to do what you think is right if you can.

Question 11 – What would you say to someone who isn’t planning on voting?

Please think again. Every vote counts on a policy level and an individual level. Vote for what feels right to you. Vote for whoever you think is the best person, party or even party leader. Its your choice now. You can choose something else in the future. Vote for what you want.

Guest post by Haydn Rushworth

The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the views of, and should not be attributed to, My Cardiff North.

In times of war, when national crisis demands that every citizen unifies behind a single goal and great, personal sacrifices for the greater good are common, young people have always been at the front and centre coming to the rescue of the entire nation.

Following the Battle of Britain, when Churchill said “Never in the field of human conflict, has so much been owed by so many to so few”, it emerged that the average age of the brave pilots who defended Britain was just 20 years old.

Today, Wales is facing a national catastrophe of crisis proportions. It affects absolutely every aspect of life in Wales, and it is the central threat to the hope-filled future that today’s young people SHOULD be looking forward to.

I’m talking about the Welsh share of the National Deficit. This is the amount of money that government must borrow each year to make up the difference between taxes raised (money in) and public spending (money out). The University of Cardiff recently published a report that calculated that the Welsh share for last year was an eye-watering, crippling, UN.BE.LIEVABLE… £14.7 billion… for JUST ONE YEAR!!!!!!!

Now, you may hear big numbers thrown about a lot and not think much of it, but lets put this into some context. We are on the verge of a National Referendum on whether the UK should leave the EU. Part of the reason for raising this question is that it costs the UK £8 billion each year just to remain members. So what if we leave? We’ll save £8 billion per year. What if, somebody takes a little peak at the near-£15 billion (almost double) that Wales costs the national economy every year and asks the awkward question “so, errr… should we now hold a referendum on whether the UK should leave Wales?”

Of course that’s not going to happen, but even so, if we don’t act now, the next generation will pay a heavy price, and that’s what UKIP wants to avoid.

So what’s the answer?

Unlike other political parties who will try to convince you they THEY are the answer to all your problems, UKIP believes that no single government can solve this problem. It’s too big, and it involves all of us. UKIP Believes that people power, not government power, is the most critical element.

Fundamental reforms to the education system are necessary so that every young person is trained and empowered in the art and craft of wealth-creation. As individuals become wealthy, the entire Welsh nation becomes wealthy.

Young People MUST lead this revolution, then the rest of Wales will follow.

The deficit crisis needs to be the Number 1 priority for the Welsh Assembly, and if enough people demand this, they will have to listen and start to act. Vote UKIP to let your voices be heard.

For more information on my personal proposals for tackling the Deficit Crisis, go to haydnrushworth.com.

Guest post by Jayne Cowan

The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the views of, and should not be attributed to, My Cardiff North.

In this election campaign, my team and I have delivered hundreds of thousands of leaflets across Cardiff North – from Rhiwbina, to Llandaff North, Thornhill, Llanishen, Lisvane, Pontprennau, Old St Mellons, Heath, Tongwynlais and Whitchurch.

With Labour only one seat from losing power, Cardiff North will be critical to deciding who is in government in Wales in only a few days’ time. Hopefully, all this literature has given a flavour as to the work I’ve been doing for the constituency I’ve lived in my whole life, and what I plan to do if elected as the Assembly Member for Cardiff North on May 5th.

Of all those pieces of paper, the leaflet I was proudest to deliver was one which contained a series of endorsements from local small businesses and shops. From an award-winning Whitchurch butcher – Martin Player, to Caerphilly Road’s Younger’s Fish Bar, Elizabeth of SP1 Hairdressers, or the owners of the Gateway of India, these local enterprises help make our community tick.

Cardiff North has some stunning high streets, which I will always passionately support. They are places to shop, socialise and share, and act as local hubs we must treasure. As such, we need to do more to support our bustling community spaces and help them thrive. Sadly, under Labour, high street vacancy rates in Wales are the highest in the UK – and, after 17 years with them at the helm, enough is enough.

Cardiff is reaping many benefits from the UK Government’s record of economic delivery – but Labour has failed to utilise the devolved levers at its disposal to build on that. Indeed, if every small business in Wales could employ just one extra member of staff, unemployment could be eliminated at a stroke. That’s why a Welsh Conservative administration would ensure any business with a rateable value of under £12,000 pay no rates whatsoever, with tapered support provided up to £15,000. Furthermore, by splitting the business rates multiplier, we can give all smaller businesses a fairer deal.

Keeping people on our local High Streets not only fuels local economies, but fosters a greater sense of community spirit. High streets, indeed, are about more than just shops. As part of a dedicated plan to back the Welsh high street, our manifesto contained a commitment to encourage the development of responsible night time economies. In Whitchurch, and elsewhere, we’ve seen the benefits this can have.

Underpinned by a focus on inclusive, community-led regeneration, and the development of a Welsh High Street Charter, encouraging the sharing of best practice, a renewed focus on High Street support must be a key focus for the next Welsh Government, and would have huge benefits across Cardiff North. I’m proud of our plan to do just that.

Welsh Conservatives want to lead a Welsh Government which is the most small-business friendly ever. The proposal to establish a ‘Small Business Hub’, scrutinising all Welsh Government policy for its impact on small firms, is testimony to that focus. In Cardiff North, this approach could play a pivotal role in boosting employment, supporting our proud High Streets and nurturing our local area’s proud entrepreneurial spirit – and is something I’ll continue to shout from the rooftops as polling day approaches.